Grilled Herbed Goat Cheese Focaccia - New Hampshire Style

Introduction

If you're looking for an easy yet elegant appetizer that brings rustic charm and gourmet flair to your outdoor gatherings, this Grilled Herbed Goat Cheese Focaccia is a must-try. By cooking the whole dish on the Arteflame Grill, we infuse the focaccia and cheese with wood-fired smokiness and achieve the perfect golden crust using the flat steel cooktop. Ideal for entertaining in New Hampshire or wherever your grill may take you, this recipe is all about flavor, simplicity, and visual appeal.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of high-quality focaccia bread, sliced lengthwise
• 8 oz goat cheese (soft, fresh)
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter (softened)
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: drizzle of local New Hampshire honey

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up your Arteflame Grill

1. Place three paper napkins in the center of your Arteflame grill and soak them with vegetable oil.
2. Stack dry firewood over the soaked napkins in a teepee shape.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build—your flat top will be ready for cooking in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prep the herbed goat cheese

1. In a mixing bowl, combine goat cheese, rosemary, thyme, chives, and minced garlic.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix thoroughly to create a creamy herb spread.

Step 3: Butter the focaccia

1. Spread softened butter on the cut side of each focaccia slice—a generous layer helps brown and crisp the bread beautifully on the grill.

Step 4: Grill the focaccia

1. Place the buttered side down of the focaccia onto the hot Arteflame flat cooktop griddle, closer to the center for that higher heat zone.
2. Grill for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy, then remove from the grill.

Step 5: Assemble and heat the cheese topping

1. Spread the herbed goat cheese mixture onto the grilled side of each focaccia slice.
2. Return to the flat top griddle, goat cheese side up, positioning further from the center to gently warm the cheese without burning.
3. Grill for another 2–3 minutes until the goat cheese is soft and creamy.

Step 6: Serve and garnish

1. Remove from grill and, if desired, lightly drizzle with local New Hampshire honey for a sweet contrast.
2. Cut into bite-sized portions and serve hot or at room temperature.

Tips

• Use unsalted butter for more control over seasoning.
• For added depth of flavor, mix in lemon zest or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese spread.
• Grill the focaccia closer to the center of the Arteflame for maximum crispiness—move it outward to avoid over-toasting when warming the cheese.
• This appetizer is even better with artisan focaccia infused with olives or sundried tomatoes.
• Try to use herbs fresh from your garden or local farmers' market for the most vibrant flavor.

Variations

1. Truffle Goat Cheese Focaccia: Add 1 tsp of truffle oil to the cheese spread for luxurious earthiness.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Focaccia: Mix in finely sliced jalapeños and a pinch of smoked paprika for heat.
3. Fig and Walnut Goat Cheese Focaccia: Add diced dried figs and toasted chopped walnuts to the cheese spread and finish with a balsamic reduction drizzle.
4. Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Focaccia: Blend in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil into the goat cheese mixture.
5. Blueberry and Mint Sweet Focaccia: Perfect as a dessert version—swap herbs for chopped mint and mix in fresh blueberry compote, topped with a honey drizzle.

Best Pairings

• Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Rosé for a refreshing balance.
• Serve alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
• Enjoy with cured meats like prosciutto or salami for a charcuterie-style presentation.

Conclusion

Grilled Herbed Goat Cheese Focaccia brings together artisan bread, creamy cheese, fresh herbs, and the unique grilling surface of the Arteflame to deliver a truly unforgettable appetizer. Perfect for New Hampshire evenings or any outdoor dining occasion, it’s flavorful, eye-catching, and surprisingly easy to make. All you need is great cheese, fresh herbs, and the right heat zone on your Arteflame grill!